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Summer is a welcome break from early alarms, packed schedules, and academic pressure—but it can also be a season where structure and spiritual habits slide. As parents, we have an opportunity to help our teens transition into the summer with purpose, balance, and intentional faith growth.

Ephesians 5:15–16 encourages us to “be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity.” Summer is one of those key opportunities to reset, reconnect, and refocus our homes around God’s presence.

5 Ways to Prepare for a Meaningful Summer Break

1. Set New Spiritual Rhythms
With school out, daily routines change—use that to your advantage. Help your teen create a summer rhythm for personal devotion, prayer, or family Bible reading.

  • Tip: Pick a weekly family “quiet time” moment—over breakfast or in the evening—to read and reflect together.

2. Encourage Summer Goals
What does your teen want to grow in this summer? Encourage them to set goals: reading through a gospel, volunteering regularly, journaling their prayers, or joining a summer youth group.

  • Help them write it down and revisit their progress every few weeks.

3. Look for Serve + Grow Opportunities
Check with FSN or local organizations for service projects, mission trips, or leadership opportunities. Teens often experience deep growth when they step out to serve.

  • Consider doing something together as a family, too—like helping a neighbor or organizing a donation drive.

4. Be Intentional with Family Time
Longer days and looser schedules create space for deeper conversations. Use road trips, hikes, or cookouts as times to talk about faith, struggles, dreams, and more.

  • Try a “Question Jar” filled with faith-based or reflective questions to spark conversation.

5. Guard Against Drift
Without structure, it’s easy for teens to drift toward excessive screen time, isolation, or apathy. Keep open communication, set healthy boundaries, and check in often—not just about rules, but about their heart.

  • Ask questions like, “What’s been encouraging you lately?” or “What are you hearing from God?”

Conclusion:

Summer is a unique season full of possibility. By preparing now, you can help your teen step into it with purpose—not just for fun and rest, but for spiritual growth. Don’t underestimate the power of a simple routine, a shared prayer, or a mission-minded goal. Let this summer be one where their faith doesn’t fade—it flourishes.

Scripture Reflection:
“Making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” — Ephesians 5:16